‘Be an Angel’ Brings Young Dancers into ‘The Nutcracker’ Production

The Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy (BTCA) again features its ‘Be an Angel’ program as part of its production of “The Nutcracker.” The special program is perennial part of the show, and it adds a special element to every performance.

The ‘Be an Angel Program’ offers an opportunity for young dancers at all experience levels. Children ages five to eight are eligible. No prior dance experience is required. It’s a fun way for kids to participate in a classical ballet production with only a two-month time commitment.

“For some it is their first experience with theatre of any type,” says Jane Hachiya-Weiner, co-Artistic Director of BTCA with her husband Frank Weiner. “It’s our job to make it fun for them, and also introduce the world of dance.”

The ‘Be an Angel Program’ extends to young children the philosophy BTCA brings to all its instruction. It rewards the brief commitment of two months with the thrill and achievement of being part of the production.

“I don’t think there is a way to quantify what that does for a child. It opens new possibilities, it let’s a child dream of things even we couldn’t anticipate,” adds Hachiya-Weiner. “When it’s time to perform, their excitement is second to none.”

Rehearsals start October 21 and run through December 10, with extended rehearsals on December 14th and 15th, only one of which is required for ‘Be an Angel’ dancers. BTCA performs ‘The Nutcracker’ December 16 at 7:30 pm; December 17 at 2:00 pm and again at 7:30 pm; and December 18 at 2:00 pm. All performances are at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.

This year’s production of “The Nutcracker” is sponsored by Evergreen Internal Medicine, Molly and the Magic Suitcase Kids Travel Books, and Kinney Dancewear. BTCA has both individual and business sponsor opportunities, interested partners can find more information at the BTCA website listed below.

BTCA is a non-profit organization with dance studios on the north side of Indianapolis.

Additional details on the ‘Be an Angel’ and other programs, as well as online registration–open through October 7–can be found at the school’s website BalletTheatreofCarmel.org.